What is the role of air exchange in controlling radon levels in homes?

Air exchange plays a significant role in controlling radon levels in homes because it essentially reduces the concentration of radon gas present in indoor air. When fresh outdoor air is introduced into the home through ventilation systems or natural air exchange, it mixes with the indoor air, thereby lowering the overall radon concentration. This process is particularly effective in reducing radon levels because radon is a gas that can accumulate in enclosed spaces. By continuously bringing in fresh air, the radon-containing air inside the home is diluted, which helps to maintain safer indoor air quality.

In contrast, options that discuss energy consumption, generation of radon, or structural integrity do not pertain directly to the effectiveness of air exchange in radon mitigation. While increased ventilation may result in higher energy costs, the primary function of air exchange in this context is to decrease radon exposure. The idea that air exchange generates more radon from soil is inaccurate since radon originates in the soil and moves into homes; ventilating the home does not change the radon production in the soil itself. Similarly, air exchange does not have any impact on the physical structure of the home; rather, it focuses on maintaining healthy indoor air by managing radon levels.